One of the key contributors to the Vermont Lake Monsters’ Stedler Division-winning squad in 2017 was right-hander Jean Ruiz, who posted a 1.38 ERA in 52.1 innings this season. Ruiz was pitching in the United States for the first time after spending three seasons in the Dominican Summer League.

A native of Colombia, Ruiz signed with the A’s before the 2014 season. In 2016, he posted a 1.70 ERA and a 50:14 K:BB in 58.1 DSL innings to earn a chance to pitch in the States. He skipped over the Arizona Rookie League and didn’t miss a beat with Vermont, striking out 42 and walking only nine. Opposing batters hit .187 against Ruiz and he allowed only one homerun. He was a mid-season New York-Penn League All-Star.

Ruiz, who turned 21 in early September, is participating in the A’s fall Instructional League camp, which begins this week. Donald Moore spoke with Ruiz during the season about his transition to Vermont.

Donald Moore: Hi Jean, how is everything going for you this season?

Jean Ruiz: This is my first year here this season, so I think that it’s been good and it’s my first year in the USA pitching in the short season.

DM: How do you like being a professional baseball player?

JR: It’s been good.

DM: Do you have any pre-game routines?

JR: Warm up, and I work on my concentration.

DM: Any hobbies?

JR: No, no hobbies.

DM: Where are you originally from?

JR: Cartagena, Colombia.

DM: How many years have you played professional baseball?

JR: Four years. I played three years in the Dominican Republic.

DM: If there is one person who taught you the most about baseball, who would that be?

JR: My family and my coaches.

DM: Do you like it in Vermont?

JR: Yes, it’s good. I like it very much.

DM: What are you going to do during the off-season?

JR: Go and be with my family in Chile.

DM: Craziest thing you have ever seen on a baseball field?

JR: Nothing crazy.

DM: I want to thank you for your time and the best to you and your future.